The long-standing anecdote about Sinatra was “it’s Frank’s world and we’re just living in it.” Now that Old Blue Eyes is dead and buried, it’s Michael’s turn. This record is exactly what it says it is: the complete, idiosyncratic work of a one man band - albeit that one man is a pop genius. And an odd one at that as Michael’s hormones are still raging (he looks about 30 on the cover) - which always makes for good art - and his libido is front and center (no pun) - which makes for great music. Armed with a guitar and a laptop Totally Michael’s three minute compositions rekindle a time when punk and power pop lived in the same garage. TM’s teenage angst is in full bloom throughout the dozen or so tracks. There’s no need to explain as the titles tell all: “Cheerleaders vs. Drill-team,” “Prom Night,” a paean to Ms. Ryder entitled “Winona,” an ode to quickies “Casual Satisfaction,” and the pathos of broken hearts as documented “In Her Diary.” Akin to Cheap Trick, Supergrass, Blondie, Jonathan Richman, and The Cars, Totally Michael is a master of melody and his thundering electro riffs never miss their target. Frank would be proud. Well, maybe Frank Zappa…
--Tom Semioli [October 13, 2008]
